Tributes have been paid from across Leicester and beyond following the death of former councillor and assistant city mayor Manjula Sood MBE, who passed away on 24 December.
Remembered as a tireless community champion and a unifying figure, Cllr Sood dedicated much of her life to public service, education and community cohesion, leaving what many have described as an immeasurable legacy.
Picture credit: Leicester City Council
Leicester City Mayor Sir Peter Soulsby described her as “exceptionally kind-hearted” and deeply committed to the city she served for almost 30 years.
“She was completely dedicated to Leicester – the city she made her home after arriving in 1970,” he said. “She worked tirelessly to break down barriers and bring people of all backgrounds together. She will be greatly missed.”
Born in 1945, Cllr Sood completed postgraduate studies at the University of Leicester before becoming one of the UK’s first Asian female teachers in 1973. She spent more than two decades teaching in Leicester schools.
After the death of her husband Paul in 1996, who had served as a city councillor for 14 years, she stood in a by-election for his ward. She was elected and went on to become Leicester’s first Hindu female councillor.
Her public life included a series of historic firsts, including becoming the UK’s first Asian female Lord Mayor in 2008. She later became the first sitting Lord Mayor in Leicester to be awarded an MBE in recognition of her community work.
Cllr Sood was particularly well known for championing multiculturalism and interfaith understanding, believing strongly that action mattered more than words. She worked with countless organisations locally and nationally and most recently served as assistant city mayor for community cohesion.
Community leader Suleman Nagdi MBE described her as a guiding presence in his life.
“To me, she was far more than a local councillor or community leader – she was like an elder sister,” he said. “Her warmth, wisdom and generous spirit shaped the lives of so many. Her legacy of compassion and service will live on.”
Shokat Adam, MP for Leicester South, also paid tribute, recalling her influence from an early age.
“Mrs Sood was my teacher,” he said. “Throughout my life, whenever I met her she was full of guidance, kindness and love. She treated everyone the same, regardless of who they were – a true reflection of her character.”
Leicestershire Police temporary chief constable David Sandell said she had been a trusted friend to the force for many years.
“She supported us through difficult times as well as good ones,” he said. “She was always there to offer advice and guidance.”
An online book of condolence has been opened to allow members of the public to share messages and tributes in her memory.
